Work Text:
Author's Note:
Written in this document are a list of observations recorded by Linhardt von Hevring, student and graduate from the Garreg Mach Monestary, and researcher for the Crest Research Program. Each documented observation was witnessed in real time, and recorded promptly. This being said, the author takes creative liberty to determine the information that is best suited to be revealed to the public. By that, I mean, some of the stuff I record is never going to see the light of day and any of your eyes, and there's nothing you can do about that. Sorry. Take it up with anybody else but me. Thanks.
Caspar. Don't read any further than this, because I know you're going to get bored of it anyway. I'm saving you the time, okay? Claude, if you're reading this, I have an additional set of unread notes with your name on it for the right price, I know you want it, and I know you want it badly.
Proceed.
Crests of the Ten Elites:
Crest of Blaiddyd: Prominent bearer: Dimitri, Faerghus Royal Family
1180- This Crest is prominent in the royal bloodline of the Kingdom of Faerghus. Records of the Crest’s ability to give its bearer immense strength in combat are noted. Coincidentally, the Crest of Blaiddyd seems to extend to instances outside of combat too. If Dimitri’s constant replacements of weapons on the training ground are any indication, we can assume this Crest is as troublesome as it is invaluable.
- Observations of immense and accidental damage and vast overshooting of javelins serve to support the secondary ability of enhanced strength outside of combat. Avoid engaging in handshakes or thumb-wrestling at all costs.
1185- Power of this Crest has been greatly under-exaggerated. Facing a bearer in combat would be asking for a quick death. Evidence suggests that heightened emotional distress further influences the power of this Crest. Further research required, though the threat of blood loss negates current desires to research at this time.
- The relic, Areadbhear, channels immense power through it. Single strikes can level lines of infantry. Avoid being on the end of it, further study required from a safe distance.
Crest of Charon: Prominent bearers: Catherine, 1185 (adjusted)- Lysithea
1180- Difficulty in wringing information of this Crest from Catherine. In combat, the Crest seems to give its user enhanced dexterity and strength, though a secondary ability can be observed in that weather patterns change irregularly in her presence. Charon’s Crest seems to pass down through generations, as most Elite Crests do.
- Possible presence of Charon Crest within Lysithea. The subject matter seems to not be one she is willing to discuss in full. Luckily, coincidence of overhearing discussions between Catherine and Lysithea prove this to be a near assured case.
- A crest bearer of Charon who wields the relic Thunderbrand may find themselves enhanced in dexterity in combat. Further study required from a safe distance.
1185- Lysithea verified the existence of this Crest within her. Removal of this Crest will be on the forefront of present studies.
Crest of Daphnel: Prominent bearer: Ingrid
1180- An oddity amongst crested nobles, Ingrid bears a crest of a family divided between Leicester and Faerghus. While highly valued in Leicester, the presence alone makes her an interest of study. The spear to the throat was unnecessary, but I digress. Unable to identify secondary ability yet, further study required.
1185- An odd ability indeed, though it is noted that the Crest of Daphnel may provide its bearer with increased stamina and durability, though at the cost of highly increased appetite, as well as immunity to ingested toxins. Further study in the dining hall required.
- The relic Lúin allows a Crest bearer to perform seismic combat skills. It also seems to serve as a suitable fishing spear in times of desperation.
Crest of Dominic: Prominent bearer: Annette
1180- A humble Crest, notable for its affiliation with conserving vast amounts of magic when used by its bearer. Study of Annette has resulted in assertion that bearers can produce feats of magic without faltering through usual reserves in combat.
- Secondary ability noted to possibly be high reserves of energy and enhanced intelligence. A bearer may be able to retain information at an elevated level, while also being able to maintain high enough energy to maintain the mind’s abilities.
1185- Oddity noted in the usage of the relic Crusher, as a wielder of the Crest would be assumed to have magic affiliation, yet the presence of a large, bone-crushing hammer-like weapon implies a physical aspect as well. That, or the creator was simply fond of breaking rocks apart. No further comment required.
- Note to self, do not anger said wielder of relic, as her energy will outmatch any other and make fleeing for your life impossible.
Crest of Fraldarius: Prominent bearer: Felix
1180- Similar to the Crest of Blaiddyd, those who bear the Crest of Fraldarius are apparently destined to fulfill a sort of sacred duty. The current bearer does not seem too intent on following that innate purpose, nor does he seem intent on allowing for in depth analysis. A shame, truly. Not many current peers possess a Major Crest so flippantly.
- The Crest provides the bearer with intense speed and strength in combat. Outside of combat, it can be noted that the bearer may have enhanced senses of eyesight and hearing, at the cost of maintaining a frigid attitude.
1185- Crest bearers using the relic Aegis Shield can provide impenetrable protection and fortified forward movement for an army. An oddity, for a defensive relic to exist amongst primarily offensive ones. I imagine Felix’s mood does not improve when he must carry such a heavy item, yet it is certainly entertaining to watch.
Crest of Gautier: Prominent bearer: Sylvain
1180- Research on this crest has resulted in subject changes more prominent than a diplomatic argument. Any inquiry of the Crest to be showcased has been met with casual refusal. Observational methods have been adjusted to catch glimpses of this stubborn Crest and its equally stubborn bearer.
- Presence of increased might and accuracy in combat when Crest is activated. Skills applied to combat arts are further enhanced, particularly with the usage of lances.
- Prominent bearer seems to be highly loathsome of his Crest. Oddity noted for further study.
- Bearer even seems uneasy to make use of the relic of the Lance of Ruin, as it is often called, most likely attributed to the death of his brother.
1185- Secondary ability noted to be advanced memory, of both strategy and education outside of combat, and more so recollection of past events. Burdensome, it would seem, yet useful all the same.
Crest of Gloucester: Prominent bearer: Lorenz, 1185 (adjusted)- Lysithea
1180- Any mage with a brain would be joyous to bear the magic of the Crest of Gloucester, though perhaps its most prominent bearer makes that abundantly clear. Lorenz’s magic suffices to expand to levels average mages cannot conjure in such sudden velocity. Constant bragging and desire to showcase abilities makes researching this Crest quite easy.
- Oddity noted. Inquiries of a secondary ability have been met with no success. Observation from afar to gauge a secondary ability has been met with no success. There is something missing.
- The intensity of magic capabilities increases even further while using the relic Thrysus. A bearer may cast magic from immeasurable distances with intensity. An overpowering energy radiates off of it. Perhaps further study will be required.
1185- The presence of a secondary ability had always existed, if only observations had been conducted during Lorenz’s sleep. Dreams, vivid and sometimes telling of events to come, seem to be the something that was missed. This is now amended.
- Note of the presence of the Gloucester Crest in Lysithea, which is now confirmed. Oddity noted of the presence of nightmares rather than dreams for a secondary ability. Perhaps artificial implantation disrupts a Crest’s innate abilities.
- Lysithea verified the existence of this Crest within her. Removal of this Crest will be on the forefront of present studies.
Crest of Goneril: Prominent bearer: Hilda
1180- The Crest has been noted to provide its bearer with an incredible ability of momentary invulnerability in combat. Perhaps it is the reasoning for such elevated combat status amongst bearers. Hilda remains an easy subject to study, seeing as we often share our notes on our fellow classmates and their flaws.
- Secondary ability can be noted as enhanced durability in the face of injury. Hilda’s fronts of pain to escape chores can be easily debunked as a falsity. Injuries do not come easily to a bearer of this Crest, sometimes not even at all.
1185- Combining combat and non-combative abilities with the relic Freikugel makes for a deadly combination. Being struck by this relic apparently sears the flesh clean, allowing its user to strike fear into any opponent. Further study from a safe distance is required.
Crest of Lamine: Prominent bearer: Mercedes
1180- Unable to recognize any prominent bearers of this Crest amongst the student body, though whispers of a bearer may be possible. Professor Hanneman is assured there is one. Further study required.
- Of current notes, bearers of this Crest are said to have enhanced reserves of healing magic in combat.
1185- Amendment noted. Mercedes is now recognized as a prominent bearer. Assuming such, the presence of the Crest may also exist in Jeritza. Beyond the expertly hidden secrecy, a bearer’s secondary ability can be noted to be capabilities of healing and sensing severe illness in any living creature.
- Though, noted that advanced baking skills should count as a sacred ability.
Crest of Riegan: Prominent bearer: Claude
1180- If only Claude’s penchant for blatantly hiding information of his own person was enough to dissuade my curiosities. If anything, it only serves to outline the importance of this particular Crest. Casual combat suggests in moments of exhaustion, the Crest will serve to rejuvenate its bearer, even if by fractions at a time. Highly valued in the hierarchy of the Leicester Alliance.
- Possible presence of accelerated non-combative healing as a secondary effect. Further observations are required.
- Additional secondary ability possible, indicated by a ferocious streak of victories in chess during time in the library. Further studies are not required.
1185- Presence of accelerated healing outside of combat confirmed. When linked with the ancient relic, Failnaught, the Crest is at its most prominent. Those lucky enough to be on the side of this bearer will benefit from a leader with accelerated rejuvenation. Those unlucky enough to not be on the side of this bearer will not be able to read these notes.
Crest of the Beast: Prominent bearer: 1185 (Adjusted)- Marianne
1180- This particular Crest holds an annoyingly cryptic position in research, without any known bearers present for study at the moment. Hopefully, this may be amended. Such a rare Crest deserves to be studied, and I deserve to be the one studying it.
1185- Presence of the Crest in Marianne, who is adamant that it brings the bearer dreadful luck. Extensive accounts also reveal an astounding possability for transmogrification into a Demonic Beast. No test of accuracy will be conducted.
- Secondary effect allows for communication with animals, from observation. Either that, or Marianne is just fond of talking at animals, not so much communicating mutually.
Crests of the Four Saints:
Crest of Ceithleann: Prominent bearer: Linhardt, Flayn
1180- This Crest stands as the easiest to analyze for obvious reasons. What better to experiment with than my own self? The Crest is entirely adept to use for healing purposes inside and outside of combat. My personal detesting of blood aside, the irony of a Crest that suits best for healing the wounded is not lost on me.
- Secondary ability is quite simple to explain. The ability to sense even the most disguised injury or ailment in another person is rather helpful, so long as instances of blood are not often present. At least, in my experience.
Crest of Cichol: Prominent bearer: Seteth, Ferdinand
1180- Ferdinand serves for a perfect study, with all that ego and an audience to share it with. Surprisingly helpful though during research, it can be assumed that bearers of this Crest can momentarily stun opponents in combat, preventing a counter attack in most instances.
- Note of Seteth’s lack of cooperation in studies, closer observation is required as to why. Perhaps Flayn will be keen on spilling her… brother’s secrets.
- Secondary ability noted to be a keen affinity for adapting dexterity to any weapon or item placed in the bearer’s hand. Ferdinand’s bragging may be fueled by the Crest’s ability to allow him to wield weapons without needing moons of training. Quite a skill for a seasoned collector, or a religious fanatic such as Seteth.
Crest of Indech: Prominent bearer: Bernadetta, Hanneman
1180- Perhaps the most well-studied Crest in the program, albeit due to its existence in Professor Hanneman himself. A rather impressive combative Crest, with the ability to allow the user to repeat offensive motions with intense speed. Best exemplified through the use of archery, with arrows fired in repetition that would be deemed impossible otherwise.
- Extensively careful observation of Bernadetta when she thinks she is alone to practice her archery late in the evening supports studies of Indech’s Crest’s ability. It surely was not her innate terror of existence that created such speed in her archery.
- Secondary ability noted to be intense speed and muscle memory, allowing for incredible feats of writing, craftsmanship and experimentation of magic. Professor Hanneman has stated that many times he must contain his ability to write notes far too quickly on the chalkboards.
1185- Presence of Saint Indech himself allowed for extensive research. Contained in the body of a fascinating creature, human contact has been reduced greatly. Difficult to best in combat, yet very generous in giving rewards.
Crest of Macuil: Prominent bearer: 1185 (Adjusted)- Saint Macuil
1180- Severely understudied Crest in comparison to most others. No known bearer has been recorded in studies, at least not recent ones. Surely, this Crest cannot have died out? It is believed this Crest relates directly to the use of magic. Perhaps, similar to that of the Gloucester Crest. Further research is required.
Crests of the Four Apostles:
Crest of Aubin: Prominent bearer: Yuri
1180- A bold Crest that strikes fear into opponents in combat. I’ve witnessed the striking light that comes from it, disorienting even the most battle-hardened warriors. Yuri’s secrecy is unmatched, and obtaining information is difficult, something about me being a noble or something.
- The Fetters of Dromi are a brilliant relic, with the capability to allow Yuri incredible movement in combat.
- A secondary ability has not been able to be observed. Perhaps it is merely Yuri’s ability to slip into the darkness and disappear at a whim’s notice. Or, his scathing tongue.
Crest of Chevalier: Prominent bearer: Balthus
1180- This Crest, similar to that of Riegan, is one that heals its user in combat if offensive attacks are used. This may explain Balthus’ hunger for battle, seeing as he surely can just heal himself of exhaustion and wounds in combat.
- The Varja-Mushti relic may be used at a dangerously high level thanks to a glee for combat. Observation from afar in case of Demonic Beast deterioration may be required. I keep a vigilant watch.
- Possible existence of luck-based secondary ability, though both instances of good luck and, frankly, quite awful luck, have been observed. Possability this luck or ill-luck can be shared to others.
1185- A consistent losing streak in cards either proves the secondary ability theory, or Balthus is just utterly incapable.
Crest of Noa: Prominent bearer: Constance
1180- A Crest of the Apostles, Constance is oddly reserved about it, even with her ceaseless energy. Undoubtedly it aids her magic in combat, giving her more magic usage in a pinch.
- Secondary ability not yet confirmed, but I speculate it may have something to do with the uniqueness of her magic and how she can create such odd yet specifically helpful spells.
Crest of Timotheos: Prominent bearer: Hapi
1180- A rather rare Crest, this one, though not without notable benefits. In combat, the bearer can advance their usage of recovery magic. Though, the noted secondary ability is rather bizarre. Communication with animals is possible. As well as demonic beasts.
- Take note to not allow Hapi to sigh while in her vicinity.
Crests of the Divine:
Crest of Flames: Prominent Bearer: Byleth
1180- The discovery of this Crest within the Professor was certainly a thrilling one. Once thought to be terminated, it seems we have been proven wrong. In combat, attacks may transfer energy to heal wounds and restore stamina. Seems to give immense battle strength as well.
- Secondary ability not yet known, though the fabled Sword of the Creator can be wielded by the professor’s hand. A fascinating phenomenon.
1185- The professor’s return and immaculate record in combat make me weary. Something is still unique about this particular Crest.
. . . Why do I feel like I have memories I cannot remember?
Crest of Seiros: Prominent Bearer: Edelgard, Rhea
1180- Edelgard will not speak often about her Crest, though its existence has passed on through her ancestry. Research already shows its ability to enhance strength in combat. Odd, really, that she does not take advantage of this often.
- Recent combat has now implied that the Archbishop herself shares this Crest. Something secretive is always going on around her… further observation is required.
- While no secondary effect can be noted, I wonder if Edelgard’s is to have high tenacity and the ability to pick apart my interests in the most exhausting way. Quite a strong ability, to which I will be ignoring.
1185- I understand now.
I understand-
No further notes.